Local Women Gather to Spotlight Heart Health and Hear from Jennie Garth
- Feb 9, 2019
- 2 min read
Hundreds of women in Champaign came together for the annual Go Red for Women luncheon, an event focused on raising awareness about heart disease and encouraging women to prioritize their own health. Actor Jennie Garth served as the keynote speaker, sharing her family’s experience with heart conditions and her own ongoing monitoring. ClarkLindsey participated in the event through team member Karen Blatzer, who serves on the planning committee.
What Happened
The American Heart Association hosted its Go Red for Women luncheon in Champaign, drawing more than 200 attendees dressed in red to highlight the importance of heart health. Jennie Garth, known for her role on “Beverly Hills, 90210,” spoke about witnessing her father’s early heart disease and how that shaped her understanding of her own risks. She described the steps she has taken throughout adulthood to stay informed and proactive about her cardiovascular health.
Event chair Anne Dill emphasized the need for women to recognize how often they prioritize others over themselves, sometimes overlooking signs of stress or illness. Her message resonated with attendees, including community members who have experienced heart disease within their families.
ClarkLindsey’s director of marketing, Karen Blatzer, also attended as part of the event committee. She noted that gatherings like this serve as both a reminder and a motivator to maintain healthy habits while strengthening connections among women in the region.
The luncheon also offered attendees a chance to engage with Garth on a personal level. She shared stories from her time on “90210” and briefly addressed ongoing discussions about a potential reboot of the series.
Why This Matters
Heart disease remains a leading cause of death for women, yet many people underestimate their personal risk. Events like the Go Red for Women luncheon help shift that narrative by providing relatable stories, practical information, and a supportive environment for learning.
For communities like Champaign-Urbana, these gatherings reinforce the importance of preventive care and self‑advocacy. They also highlight how shared experiences—whether through family history, personal health challenges, or community involvement—can motivate people to take meaningful steps toward long‑term well‑being.
Key Details at a Glance
Event: Go Red for Women luncheon hosted by the American Heart Association
Location: Champaign, Illinois
Keynote speaker: Jennie Garth
Focus: Women’s heart health and preventive awareness
ClarkLindsey involvement: Committee participation by Karen Blatzer
Attendance: More than 200 women
Broader Context
Across the country, organizations are working to close the awareness gap around women’s heart health. Research shows that symptoms can present differently in women, and many remain unaware of their risk factors. Community events that blend education, storytelling, and peer support play an important role in shifting perceptions and encouraging early action.
ClarkLindsey’s engagement in regional health initiatives reflects a broader commitment to supporting the well‑being of older adults and the wider community. By participating in events like this, the organization helps amplify messages that benefit people across generations.
Source Attribution: This post is based on publicly reported information originally covered by The News-Gazette.
